1987 Lancia Thema vs. 1978 Volvo 164
To start off, 1987 Lancia Thema is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 164 would be higher. At 2,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volvo 164 (138 HP) has 38 more horse power than 1987 Lancia Thema. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volvo 164 should accelerate faster than 1987 Lancia Thema.
Because 1978 Volvo 164 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 Volvo 164. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Lancia Thema, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1987 Lancia Thema (221 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 164. (204 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 164.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Lancia Thema | 1978 Volvo 164 | |
| Make | Lancia | Volvo |
| Model | Thema | 164 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2445 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 5610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 3350 mm |
